After spending the last week doing intensive research, I've now put the Yamaha Pacifica range of guitars on my short list. Main reasons being, Yamaha has had a consistent and long term reputation of quality in all their instruments, including guitars. I know that the Japanese will make totally sure that quality will not be compromised whether they have their guitars made in Indonesia or elsewhere. So that's one elements I don't have to worry about.
I've seen reviews and very capable guitarists and guitar teachers play the Pacifica guitars on Youtube, and it sounds damn good to my ears.
Further, at a price of around $400 -$500 ( for the 112V or 212VFM, 13" radius which is what I want, SS Alnico x2 or Humbucker x1), I am looking at a good solid guitar for a beginner ( at least until I get the bug and want to explore other guitars to add to my collection), plus money left over for the cables, strap, pick and of course a reasonable practice amp. This will actually keep me within the $1000 budget.
The accidental guitarist.